Clinical therapist has been ordering coffee under her mom’s name, who passed away 33 years ago — the reason hits home for anyone grieving
Getting through loss doesn’t mean letting go of the memory; it means learning to carry it with you. One such story was shared by Miranda Malone, a clinical therapist who found a unique way to stay connected to her late mother. In an Instagram video posted on February 20, 2026, she showed herself ordering coffee using a different name. The post, shared under the handle @themotherlosstherapist, quickly caught attention for its emotional depth. While the act seemed simple at first, it carried a much deeper meaning rooted in memory, healing, and connection that many people could relate to.
Malone revealed that she orders coffee using her mother’s name, who passed away 33 years ago. She explained, “One of my favorite grief rituals is ordering my coffee in my dead mom, Rosalie’s name.” What might seem like a small habit actually holds deep emotional value for her. As both a therapist and grief guide, she described how saying her mother’s name out loud helps her feel connected, even after many years.
She further confirmed the reasoning behind this practice from a psychological point of view. According to her, speaking a loved one’s name can activate memories and emotional connections built over time. It helps the mind shift from focusing on loss to remembering the bond that still exists. In many ways, such rituals remind us that grief does not always fade but can change into something softer and more manageable with time.
Malone also shared that hearing the name repeated back, like when a barista calls out the order, adds another layer of comfort. "Saying her name helps the brain reconcile that duality: she’s not physically here, but she still exists," she wrote in the caption. She said it helps in "creating a moment of regulation, grounding, and continuity instead of rupture." This simple exchange can bring a sense of calm and connection, even in a busy environment. It shows how small actions can help people process emotions and feel a sense of presence with those they have lost.
Her story highlights how personal rituals can play an important role in healing. She encouraged others to try similar practices, saying, “It’s not just sentimental. It’s science, spirit, and remembrance all in one act.” Rituals like this create a bridge between past and present, honoring cherished memories while keeping us rooted in the here and now.
Many internet users also took to the comment section to share their own personal experiences. @mccafferface wrote, "I tried this the other day, and it felt nice." @jaqfirth shared, "I started using my Mum’s name as login details at work. I love that I get to type her name every day." @courtneyannstephens expressed, "Wow! So strong. I'm now sitting here telling myself to say her name out loud, and I can't without feeling myself getting ready to cry."
For more helpful grieving tips, follow @themotherlosstherapist on Instagram.
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